by Angela Mcelroy

Created on: May 26, 2009

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD for short, is a an almost crippling condition that 5% of menstruating women suffer from. Many women go through the severe emotional and physical changes each month without sympathy or understanding from family members and friends.The symptoms from this disorder are disruptive to normal everyday life. PMDD and PMS do have some similarities such as, depression, anxiety, moodiness, and tension. However, the severity of PMDD takes the symptoms to a whole new level of suffering. Each month I personally suffer through this disorder. So I know first hand the devastating affect that PMDD can have on life.

The sudden mood swings that stem from this disorder are so intense that it is frightening. One moment a woman may feel on top of the world, then all of a sudden a sense of despair befalls you. There are times when it feels as if you are completely out of control. The irritability is so sharp it causes conflicts with family members and friends. During this time my children and husband completely overwhelm me. I don't want to be around family or anyone else. Some days I'm so exhausted, so depleted of energy that getting to work is almost impossible. I crave food and eat almost constantly the whole time. These symptoms can last anywhere from one to two weeks before menstruation begins.

The cause of premenstrual dsyphoric disorder is still unclear. Doctors believe that it may be an inherited condition. PMDD is treated in three different ways. It treated with medications such as antidepressants. The second way of treating it is with pshchotherapy. The third is with a change in diet. Most doctors use a combination of the three. However, this treatment is scientifically proven to work. Treatment is usually different for each individual since the symptoms and their severity can vary from person to person. PMDD can be cure by removing the ovaries but this is usually a measure of last resort.

Most women do have discomfort from their menstrual cycles, yet, all do not suffer from PMDD. The best way to determine if you have this disorder is to been screened by your doctor. While it may be difficult to make family and friends realize the effect that PMDD has on your life, it is important to provide them with as much information as possible. PMDD is not a joke. It is a serious physical and mental disorder that can take a toll on life. It is not good to be severally depressed or out of control even if it is once a month. Support from your loved ones will make it much easier to handle the disorder.

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